Established in 1951Learn about our History

Gate Hill has been providing meaningful and memorable summer experiences for campers and their families for over 60 years.

25 years of Family Ownership

Since 1989, Gate Hill has been owned and operated by the Male family; Josh, Bob and Jennifer Male.

From the first summer, the Male family has committed to the annual tradition of investing in the camp facility and programs. Whether it's a facility project like the addition of a new soccer field or climbing tower or developments to our programs like free online photos, or specialty Jr Sports instructors, Gate Hill's commitment to improve is a cornerstone to our operational philosophy.

Similarly, The Male family has embodied the community and family feel that defines Gate Hill. New traditions like the Gathering, Buddy notes and Group Rocks support the timeless traditions and values of Gate Hill in fresh and engaging ways.

Sleepaway Camp to Day Camp

Gate Hill has a set of core values that have always defined us as a special place to spend the summer. Historical directors have strengthened our family feel and welcoming community, and the family connections run deep to this day.

Opened in 1951 by Robert and Marica Rubin, Gate Hill was originally a sleepaway camp. The hand built cabins, shady trails and mountain views set the stage for campers to build self confidence and peer relationships in a fun accepting family culture.

Gate Hill was later owned by Stan Rubin, who coincidentally was Bob Male's swim coach at school. Years later, Stan's son became a gym teacher, and ironically Josh Male became his student. Stan began Gate Hill's commitment to swim teaching although at the time there were no pools at camp and campers swam in the lake!

Gate Hill was later owned by Jane Stirling and Bob Stein. Jane was a local name in Rockland as the owner of the a.b.c. Nursery Group, and is remembered for her great warmth, her passion for her children, and a desire for all in this life to be happy with who they are. These values live on today in the culture of the Gate Hill community. Today Jane's Grandaughter continues her legacy as part of our full time team.

Nate had the absolute best birthday party he could have dreamed of. Everything was truly amazing. The attention to detail in preparation for the party and the energy, passion, and patience (with kids and parents alike) on party day far surpassed our expectations. Every one of our guests commented that this was one of the best parties they had been at and that camp was the perfect location. Gate Hill's facility is gorgeous. And everyone was in awe of the Gate Hill staff, and Zac is a rare talent who had each and every kid engaged and playing from the minute the party started to the end. Plus he somehow managed to take care of every last detail from decor and goodie bag set-up to managing games, pizza and leading the best dance party ever. He is the perfect host!! And his team was unreal too! Gate Hill took care of everything so we could actually enjoy and celebrate! Thank you for the best party ever. We love Gatehill!!

The Grishman Family

New York, NY

My children started at Gate Hill three years ago and we never looked back! Gate Hill offers a warm, caring, safe and FUN atmosphere. Gate Hill has been an exceptional experience, one we intend on repeating for many summers to come.

The Jaeger Family

Croton, NY

As an Explorer, our son worked on cool projects, participated in a theatrical production, had great swim instruction, made friends and couldn't wait to attend camp daily. In fact, he woke up earlier to go to camp than school! Gate Hill was a great experience for our camper and his parents!

The Soltano & Sarnoff Family

Fort Lee, NJ

Gate Hill helped me grow so much as a person, improved my confidence, gave me amazing friends and a wealth of unforgettable memories. On a professional level camp has firmly cemented my ambition of working with children as a primary school teacher. It was hard work but above all else it was FUN. I would recommend working at Gate Hill to anyone, it's simply awesome!

Chris R.

Soccer Specialist

Campers have a chance to try new things like going on the zip line, learning to swim or act, in a comfortable supportive environment. No matter who you are or what your interests are, at Gate Hill Day Camp you're part of the family.

Will T.

Group Counselor

I worked at Gate Hill as an Early Childhood Head Counselor for the 4 year old boys and girls. Watching the kids have fun, play and excel, especially at swimming, was a pleasure to see. I have 2 boys who attended camp and LOVED every minute of it. They went from non-swimmers to passing the deep water test by the end of Summer!

Gloria T.

Early Childhood Head Counselor

Long before I worked at Gate Hill, since they were 3, both of my sons enjoyed every summer here. Now, I get to enjoy camp’s beautiful outdoor setting and help children express themselves through arts and crafts.

Laurie V.

Arts & Crafts Specialist

Gate Hill Day Camp’s great facility is beautifully located, nicely built, and well maintained. It gave me a great first impression and I feel like it is getting better every time I make a visit. No wonder my kids love to go back day after day.

The Lim Family

Closter, NJ

Each year we are consistently impressed with all the new and exciting activities that our kids come home and tell us about. Gate Hill provides the right balance between sports, swim instruction, electives and special activities.

The Weidler Family

Tarrytown, NY

What stands out is the genuine spirit and dedication of the staff. You never get the sense that this is just a job- it's their passion. From the communication to the attention and energy from the counselors, Gate Hill has exceeded our expectations.

The Peltzman Family

NY, NY

Only a special place would move us to let our children ride a bus across the Tappan Zee twice each day. Gate Hill is just that place. The Male family does a superb job in making every child feel special and keeping every parent worry-free.

The Wels Family

Ardsley, NY

My children made far more progress on their swimming skills during Gate Hill’s summer swim program than a year of lessons at another program. Safe, fun and structured swimming program helped my children to love the water. Just for this program, Gate Hill summer day camp was well worth every dollar.

The Lim Family

Closter, NJ

Gate Hill was a transformational experience for our son. He approached the summer with apprehension about swimming. He ended the summer not only knowing how to swim, but really excited for any chance to be in the pool and even the ocean!

The Epple Family

Irvington, NY

Gate Hill is a very special place! They truly take care of our children, especially in managing their life-threatening food allergies. That being the case, we are able to relax and the boys are free to enjoy all of the fantastic activities and programs the camp has to offer.

The Ourman Family

Irvington, NY

Gate Hill is a camp for our kids and a community for our family. Our children have a great time in a beautiful camp setting-- swimming, water slides, zip line, arts & crafts and Gaga. And it's close to Manhattan. They don't miss a beat, we love Gate Hill!

The Rosenstein Family

NY, NY

Start the conversation

Inquire to receive our full packet, DVD and rates. Gate Hill's 2018 summer season runs 8 weeks Monday to Friday, from June 25th to August 17th (Closed July 4th).
Ask about our 4 week sessions (6/25 - 7/20 or 7/23 - 8/17) and options for 5,6,7 and 8 weeks.